She said the biggest challenge for her is the mental aspect of the races.

“I think sometimes, as a runner during these long distances, you can let your mind take over," she said. "Your body is going to start to hurt. That’s just inevitable. So, I think being mentally prepared is my biggest key."

Walls said the training sometimes take her away from other aspects of her life, but said she does her best not to let it interfere with her family. She does most of her training while her sons are at school.

If anything, Walls said, she hopes her love of running inspires her children to adopt healthy lifestyles. She is currently helping her oldest son train for his first half marathon.